The Best Beginner Drones Under $100
If you’re eager to explore the world of drones but don’t want to break the bank, fear not! There are plenty of beginner-friendly drones available for under $100 that can help you get started on your aerial adventures. Whether you want to capture stunning photos or simply have some fun, these drones have got you covered. In this article, we’ll explore the top choices for beginner drones in this price range and provide some valuable insights to help you make an informed decision. So without further ado, let’s dive into the world of affordable drones!
Ryze Tello: DJI Tech at an Affordable Price
- Dimensions: 98 x 92.5 x 41 mm
- Weight: 80 g with battery and propellers
- Max Range: 100 m
- Max Altitude: 30 m
- Max Speed: 8 m/s
- Max Flying Time: 13 mins
- Camera: HD
✅ Pros:
- Effortless to begin flying
- Includes propeller guards for safe flights
- Has great auto modes for showing off or taking videos and photos
- Very lightweight
- Has a variety of failsafe protection, from low-battery alerts to collision detection
❌ Cons:
- Although it has a video positioning system designed to help it hover, this isn’t this drone’s strong suit
The Ryze Tello is the closest you can get to a DJI drone for under $100. Powered by DJI technology, this drone offers exceptional value for money. It may be small in size, but it’s big on features. Sporting a high-definition camera with an Intel processor, the Tello can capture stunning 5 MP photos and deliver smooth videos. Even if you’ve never flown a drone before, the Tello is incredibly easy to handle. Simply toss it into the air, and it will start flying. You can control it using the Tello app on your phone or with the compatible controller for a more immersive experience. With a flight time of 11 to 13 minutes, the Tello allows you to perform impressive stunts, capture amazing footage, and have a blast while doing it. Plus, it comes with safety features like external propeller guards, making it suitable for beginners of all ages.
Holy Stone HS200: Style Meets Functionality
- Dimensions: 280 x 260 x 80 mm
- Weight: 124.5 g
- Max Range: 150 m
- Max Altitude: N/A
- Max Speed: N/A
- Max Flying Time: 9 mins
- Camera: HD
✅ Pros:
- Highly appealing design
- Can fly even in moderate winds
- Good camera quality
- Has many beginner-friendly automated features
❌ Cons:
- Takes a long time to charge
If aesthetics matter to you, the Holy Stone HS200 is the drone to consider. With its sleek design and striking red color scheme, it’s sure to turn heads. But it’s not just about looks; the HS200 also packs some impressive features. Equipped with an HD camera and a 120-degree wide-angle lens, it can capture stunning footage in 720p quality. You can even transmit live video to your phone, allowing you to share your adventures with friends in real-time. The Holy Stone app offers various modes, including Gravity Sensor Mode, which allows you to control the drone by tilting your phone. The altitude hold feature ensures stable hover, making it easier for you to take photos and videos. The HS200 also comes with prop guards and spare propellers, ensuring durability and longevity.
DEERC D10: Futuristic Design and Fun Features
- Dimensions: 340 x 340 x 65 mm unfolded
- Weight: 160 g
- Max Range: 100 m
- Max Altitude: 100 m
- Max Speed: 14 mph
- Max Flying Time: 15 mins
- Camera: HD
✅ Pros:
- Comes with lots of spares, including four propellers and prop guards
- Adjustable speed settings ideal for beginners
- Has decent camera quality
- Durable frame built from ABS plastic
❌ Cons:
- Doesn’t reach very high speeds
For those looking for a low-cost beginner drone with a futuristic design, the DEERC D10 is an excellent choice. This foldable drone is not only visually appealing but also highly capable. Its HD camera can capture photos and videos in 1280 by 720p resolution, ensuring crisp and clear footage. The foldable design makes it incredibly portable, allowing you to take it on all your adventures. The D10’s ABS plastic frame keeps it lightweight yet durable, making it resistant to minor bumps and bruises. With features like single-button takeoffs and landings, trajectory flights, and adjustable speed settings, the D10 offers ample room for beginners to explore and grow their piloting skills. It even has gesture and voice control options, adding a touch of fun and interactivity to your drone flying experience.
Holy Stone HS280: Fun and Versatility at Your Fingertips
- Dimensions: 329 x 210 x 53 mm unfolded
- Weight: 151 g
- Max Range: 100 m
- Max Altitude: N/A
- Max Speed: N/A
- Max Flying Time: 13 mins
- Camera: UHD
✅ Pros:
- Has two speeds so beginners can learn at their own pace
- Offers fun automatic features, including one-key takeoffs and landings and gesture mode
- Has decent camera quality for the price
- Includes custom trajectory maps
❌ Cons:
- Not so good in the wind
- No stabilization options for the camera
The Holy Stone HS280 is another affordable drone worth considering if you want a feature-packed drone without breaking the bank. Equipped with a UHD camera and an adjustable lens, it can capture stunning 1080p photos and videos. With the Holy Stone app, you can easily plan flight routes by drawing flight maps and have the drone replicate them. The HS280 also features one-key takeoffs and landings, gesture mode, and various automated functions to enhance your flying experience. It even offers two speeds, allowing beginners to start slow and gradually increase their piloting skills. Although it may not perform as well in windy conditions and lacks camera stabilization options, the HS280 provides a fun and versatile drone experience at an affordable price.
Best Beginner Drones Under $100 FAQs
Am I limited to toy drones if I spend under $100?
Although toy drones dominate the market in the $30 to $100 price range, you can find higher-quality options if you know where to look. The drones we’ve recommended in this article are not only beginner-friendly and affordable but also resemble proper drones rather than toys. They are designed to provide a sense of pride as you fly them around your neighborhood or at the park.
Do I have to register a drone under $100?
Fortunately, no! Drone registration is only required for drones weighing more than 250 grams or 0.55 pounds. Drones in the under $100 range are typically lightweight and have little to no payload capacity, keeping them below the registration threshold.
Can I get a DJI drone for under $100?
DJI drones are known for their quality and performance, but they usually come with a higher price tag. However, the Ryze Tello, mentioned earlier, features DJI technology at an affordable price. While it may not be a full-fledged DJI drone, it offers an excellent compromise for those on a budget.
Best Beginner Drones Under $100 Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the right beginner drone under $100 can be a daunting task, but fear not! We’ve compiled some pointers to help you select the best one for your needs:
Camera quality: While you can’t expect top-notch camera quality in this price range, look for drones that offer HD resolution and some form of image stabilization. This will ensure that your photos and videos come out clear and shake-free.
Automated features: GPS-driven automated features are essential for beginner drones. Look for features like hover, altitude hold, and headless mode that make flying easier and more enjoyable. Gesture and voice control options can add an extra layer of fun to your drone experience.
Safety: Consider drones that offer safety features such as auto return-to-home, low-battery warnings, and propeller guards. These features will help protect your drone and ensure a longer lifespan.
Speed settings: Some drones offer multiple speed settings, allowing beginners to start at a slower pace and gradually increase their flying skills. This reduces the risk of crashes and gives you time to gain confidence in piloting your drone.
Battery life: While you shouldn’t expect exceptional battery life in this price range, aim for drones that provide close to 10 minutes of flight time. Keep in mind that advertised battery life may differ slightly from actual flight time and can be affected by factors like weather conditions.
So there you have it, a comprehensive guide to the best beginner drones under $100. Whether you choose the Ryze Tello for its DJI technology, the Holy Stone HS200 for its style, the DEERC D10 for its futuristic design, or the Holy Stone HS280 for its versatility, you’re bound to have a fantastic time exploring the world from above. Happy flying!